Lighting up your jon boat is an essential step for all night fishing trips, and a great way to improve your boat’s visibility at night.
But how do you get started? This comprehensive guide will show you the steps you need to take to mount a light bar on your jon boat.
We’ll cover topics such as choosing the right light bar, preparing the boat surface, drilling the holes, and more.
So no matter your boat type or the light bar you’re using, you can easily install a light bar with this guide!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Mounting a light bar on a jon boat requires a few steps.
First, you need to measure the area where the light bar will be mounted and mark it accordingly.
Next, you need to drill holes in the boat to accommodate the mounting screws.
Finally, you need to attach the light bar to the boat using the mounting screws.
Once done, the light bar should be securely mounted to the jon boat.
Choosing the Right Light Bar
When it comes to installing a light bar on a jon boat, the first step is to choose the right light bar.
It is important to consider the size and weight of the light bar as well as the mounting surface available on the boat.
The light bar should be lightweight but still strong enough to withstand the force of the waves and be able to illuminate the area in the dark.
If the light bar is too heavy, it may cause the boat to become unbalanced, and if it is too light, it may not be able to produce enough light to be effective.
Additionally, the light bar should be waterproof to ensure it can withstand being out on the water for extended periods of time.
Once you have chosen the right light bar, you can move on to the next step of the process.
Preparing the Boat Surface
Before you can mount a light bar on a jon boat, you first need to prepare the boat surface for installation.
This means properly marking the area where the light bar will be installed, as well as ensuring that the surface is capable of withstanding the weight of the light bar.
To mark the area, use a pencil or marker to draw a light line on the boat surface.
This will help you visualize where the light bar will be placed.
Once you have marked the area, you should use a tape measure to determine the size of the light bar and the weight it will be bearing.
This will help you determine the size and number of mounting bolts you will need, and the type of surface you need to prepare.
For example, if the light bar is heavy, you may need to reinforce the boat surface with additional material such as wood or metal.
Finally, you should use a hole saw to drill the necessary holes for mounting bolts.
To ensure that the light bar is securely attached, you should use heavy-duty bolts and washers.
This will ensure the light bar is firmly mounted and will not come loose when out on the water.
Once the bolts are in place, use a silicone sealant to prevent water seeping into the boat.
This will keep the boat dry and prevent any damage to the light bar.
Drilling the Holes
Drilling the holes is an important step to consider when installing a light bar on a jon boat.
To ensure it is properly mounted, it is important to choose the right size and weight of the light bar, as well as the mounting surface available.
A hole saw is the best tool for the job, as it can accurately cut the necessary holes for mounting bolts.
Before starting the drilling process, it is important to mark the area of the boat where the light bar will be installed.
This will help ensure the light bar is installed in the right place.
Make sure the area is clean and free of debris, as this can interfere with the drilling process.
When using a hole saw, it is important to start with a smaller bit and gradually increase the size of the hole.
This will help ensure the light bar is securely mounted with enough clearance for the mounting bolts.
Make sure to drill straight and in a perpendicular direction to ensure a snug fit.
Once the holes are drilled, it is time to secure the light bar with bolts.
Make sure to use the right size bolts for the job.
It is also important to use silicone sealant to ensure a watertight seal.
This will help prevent any moisture from seeping in and damaging the light bar.
With the right preparation and installation techniques, drilling the holes for a light bar on a jon boat is a straightforward process.
Make sure to take your time and pay attention to detail to ensure the light bar is securely mounted and ready for use.
Securing the Light Bar
Securing the light bar to your jon boat is a crucial step in the installation process.
To ensure the light bar is properly installed, it is important to consider the size and weight of the light bar, as well as the mounting surface available.
You will want to make sure that the surface is free of any obstructions such as protruding hardware or grooves that may interfere with the installation.
First, mark the area of the boat where the light bar will be installed.
Do this by measuring the length and width of the light bar and then transferring the measurements onto the boat’s surface.
You should also take into account any obstructions or hardware that may be in the way.
Once you have marked the area, it is time to drill the necessary holes for mounting bolts.
To do this, you will need a hole saw.
Make sure to select the correct size hole saw for the size of the mounting bolts that you plan to use.
It is important to use the correct size hole saw to ensure the bolts fit properly.
Once the holes have been drilled, you can begin to secure the light bar to the boat with bolts.
Make sure to use high-quality bolts that are rated for marine use.
It is important to use stainless steel bolts to resist corrosion, as well as to ensure a tight fit.
Once the light bar is secured with bolts, you will want to use silicone sealant to ensure a watertight seal.
This will help to protect the light bar from the elements, as well as prevent water from seeping into the bolts.
Make sure to use a sealant that is rated for marine use.
Finally, you will need to connect the light bar to a power source, such as a battery.
This will provide the light bar with the power it needs to operate.
Depending on the type of light bar you have, you may need to use additional parts such as wiring and connectors to make the proper connections.
By following these steps, you should have no problem installing a light bar on your jon boat.
With the right preparation and installation techniques, mounting a light bar on a jon boat is a straightforward process.
Sealing the Mounting Area
Once you have marked the area of the boat where the light bar will be installed and drilled the necessary holes for mounting bolts, it is important to seal the mounting area to ensure a watertight seal.
This will help to prevent any water from getting into the boat and causing damage.
To do this, use a silicone sealant.
Silicone sealants are designed to form a waterproof seal around the mounting area, and they are also flexible and durable, meaning they can withstand the movement of the boat without cracking or breaking.
When applying the sealant, make sure to apply it evenly and in a thin layer.
This will help to ensure that the seal is watertight.
Once the sealant has been applied, allow it to cure for the recommended time before using the boat.
In addition to using a silicone sealant, you may also want to use a layer of tape or plastic over the sealant to further protect it from water and moisture.
This extra layer of protection can help to keep the sealant from cracking or becoming brittle over time.
Finally, it is important to inspect the sealant after a few months of use to ensure that it is still in good condition.
If the sealant begins to crack or wear away, it may need to be replaced to ensure proper watertightness.
Connecting the Power Source
Connecting the power source is a crucial step in the process of mounting a light bar on a jon boat.
The power source not only provides electricity to the light bar, but also ensures its safe operation.
Depending on the light bar you are using, there are several options for connecting to a power source.
The most common option is to connect the light bar to a battery.
This is the most reliable option, as it ensures the light bar will receive a consistent supply of power, regardless of the boats location.
To ensure the battery will last as long as possible, it is important to select the correct size for the light bar.
Additionally, it is important to ensure the battery is securely mounted in the boat.
Another option is to connect the light bar to a solar panel.
This is a great option for those who want to reduce their reliance on batteries and use renewable energy sources.
Solar panels typically come with all the necessary components and easy-to-follow instructions.
Additionally, they are relatively easy to install and require minimal maintenance.
Finally, some light bars can be connected to a generator.
This is the most expensive option, but it is also the most reliable.
Generators provide consistent, reliable power, regardless of the weather or location of the boat.
Additionally, generators are often more powerful than batteries and solar panels, allowing for longer running times.
No matter which power source you choose, it is important to ensure the connection is secure and of the correct voltage.
Additionally, it is important to check the light bar regularly for any signs of wear or damage.
With the right preparation and installation techniques, mounting a light bar on a jon boat is a straightforward process.
Testing the Light Bar
Before you mount your light bar to the jon boat, it is important to make sure it is working properly.
Testing the light bar will help you avoid any unnecessary problems when you are out on the water.
First, you should inspect the light bar for any visible signs of damage or broken parts.
Make sure all the wires are properly connected and there are no loose or corroded components.
If you find any issues, it is best to repair them before continuing.
Next, connect the light bar to a power source, such as a battery or a generator, and test it.
Turn on the power and make sure the lights are working properly.
If the lights are not working, check the connections and make sure everything is securely connected.
Once you have verified that the light bar is functioning properly, you can then proceed to mount it to the jon boat.
Make sure the mounting surface is clean and dry before drilling any holes.
Use a hole saw to drill the necessary holes for mounting bolts.
Then, secure the light bar with bolts and use silicone sealant to ensure a watertight seal.
Finally, connect the light bar to a power source, such as a battery, and youre ready to go.
With the right preparation and installation techniques, mounting a light bar on a jon boat is a straightforward process.
Final Thoughts
Mounting a light bar on a jon boat can be an easy and effective way to improve visibility while out on the water.
With the right preparation and installation techniques, it’s a straightforward process that any boat owner can do.
Now that you know how to mount a light bar on a jon boat, why not give it a go? You’ll be surprised at the difference it can make on your next outing.